At the Robert J. Higgins Welcome Center on April 9, the University of Rhode Island and the Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany, Boston, brought German expertise and excellence together through “A Celebration of German Creativity: Art, Science, and Engineering in Rhode Island.”
The event featured networking, presentations, food, and music, all from German-Americans based in Rhode Island.
Guests were greeted in the lobby and offered a United States and Germany crossed lapel pin. Posters in the presentation room displayed study abroad experiences in Germany by German International Engineering, Business and Computer Science Program students.
Fourth-year Nathaniel Nichols kicked off the evening with traditional German yodeling, inviting guests to take a seat and prepare for the incoming presentations.
The first presenter was Patrick Buhr, a media artist and fellow at the Rhode Island School of Design. Born and raised in Germany, Buhr detailed his love for animation and storytelling through his journey from Germany to the United States.
With many award-winning short films, Buhr was offered the opportunity to become a fellow at RISD, which is where he has been able to pass on his knowledge as a media artist as well as a German-American.
“I was always telling my students that everything we do here is about noticing your gut feeling,” Buhr said. “I think we all have a gut feeling, especially if you are in science or art. Fields like that are closely linked to creativity. The most beautiful thing you can do in life is when you feel that gut feeling and you pursue it.”
Following Buhr was Stefan Fertmann, the Director of Manufacturing at IGUS Incorporated in Rhode Island. The nature of his work focuses on movement components made of high-performance polymers, made from lubrication-free plastics.
Fertmann, following a similar journey, began his work in Germany before making his way to the U.S. Having hosted American college students at his home in Germany, the students returned the favor and invited Fertmann to the U.S., where he fell in love with the university culture.
His trip inspired him to apply to and attend URI to finish his masters degree under the IEP, which many of the students in the audience are currently a part of. Fertmann encouraged students to get out there and experience the world.
“I would always recommend somebody to go abroad,” Fertmann said. “Study somewhere else and experience what it is like to survive in a university in another country. You will always find that there are so many people helping you and supporting you. You will definitely come back with lots of good experience and new friends.”
To round off, one of URI’s own, Dr. Susanne Menden-Deuer, took the stage. A professor of oceanography at URI, Menden-Deuer, outlined her work as a professor, as well as her research into microorganisms such as plankton.
A first-generation student, Menden-Deuer said the idea of studying abroad was foreign, but she couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunities she received.
“I’m a first-generation student,” Menden-Deuer said. “I really benefit from that today because when I talk to students, especially around their parents, they are astounded at the idea that you could get a full ride to a university.”
Before a German dinner, Nichols returned to the stage to perform a few more songs. Following the dinner was filled with German delights, such as slow-cooked sauerbraten beef in gingersnap gravy, herbed egg noodles with wild mushrooms, and cucumber dill salad.
URI encourages students to seek study abroad opportunities where possible. To see options for studying abroad, in German and worldwide, go to the university’s website.
